Types of Vertebrae Flashcards
1
Q
What are the types of vertebrae, and how many of each are there?
A
Cervical - 7
Thoracic - 12
Lumbar - 5
1 Sacrum - (5 vertebrae fused together into 1 part)
1 Coccyx - (3-4 vertebrae fused together into 1 part)
2
Q
Name and function of C1
A
- Atlas
- Supports the weight of the skull
3
Q
Name and function of C2
A
- Axis
- Fits into the Atlas and allows for rotation and pivoting of the skull
4
Q
Where are cervical vertebrae located?
A
- Neck area
5
Q
Where are Thoracic vertebrae located?
A
- Behind the rib cage
6
Q
Where are the Lumbar vertebrae located?
A
- Lower back
7
Q
Where is the sacrum located?
A
- Hips
8
Q
Where is the Coccyx located?
A
- Tailbone
9
Q
Thoracic Vertebrae
A
- Transverse costal facets are the attachment points for the ribs
10
Q
Lumbar Vertebrae
A
- Largest and strongest vertebrae
- Provide attachment points for back and abdominal muscles
11
Q
What are Intervertebral discs, and where are they found?
A
- Fibrocartilaginous discs
- Found between vertebrae except for C1 and C2
12
Q
What is the function of Intervertebral discs?
A
- Provide a support and cushion for vertebrae
13
Q
Describe a normal spinal curve.
A
- Cervical curve - concave
- Thoracic curve - convex
- Lumbar curve - concave
- Sacral curve - convex
